Genesis 43:22

KJV

And other money have we brought down in our hands to buy food: we cannot tell who put our money in our sacks.

KJV (with Strong's)

And other {H312} money {H3701} have we brought down {H3381} in our hands {H3027} to buy {H7666} food {H400}: we cannot tell {H3045} who put {H7760} our money {H3701} in our sacks {H572}.

Complete Jewish Bible

moreover, we have brought down other money to buy food. We have no idea who put our money in our packs."

Berean Standard Bible

We have brought additional silver with us to buy food. We do not know who put our silver in our sacks.”

American Standard Version

And other money have we brought down in our hand to buy food: we know not who put our money in our sacks.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 43:22 records the earnest declaration of Jacob's sons to Joseph's steward, explaining their genuine bewilderment regarding the mysteriously returned money from their previous journey to Egypt. They emphasize that they have brought additional funds specifically to purchase food and assert their complete ignorance as to who placed the original money back into their sacks, highlighting their desperate desire to appear honest and avoid any accusation of wrongdoing.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a pivotal moment in the unfolding drama of Joseph and his brothers, specifically upon their second arrival in Egypt. Following the severe famine that gripped the land, Jacob had reluctantly sent his sons to Egypt for grain. During their first trip, Joseph, now the powerful governor, had secretly orchestrated the return of their money into their sacks ([Genesis 42:27-28](/genesis/42-27-28 "Discovery of money in sacks")). This discovery filled them with terror and confusion, leading to Jacob's initial refusal to send Benjamin on the second trip. However, the escalating famine and Judah's solemn pledge for Benjamin's safety finally compelled Jacob to send them, instructing them to take double money, including the returned funds, to give back to the man ([Genesis 43:1-14](/genesis/43-1-14 "Jacob's instructions and Judah's pledge")). Upon their arrival at Joseph's house, before their audience with him, the brothers proactively address the steward, seeking to clear their names regarding the perplexing financial situation. Their anxiety and immediate confession underscore the gravity of their predicament and their desire for integrity.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near East was characterized by strict laws regarding property and theft, with severe penalties often including enslavement or death, particularly for foreigners. In a land like Egypt, a powerful empire, foreigners were vulnerable and dependent on the good graces of officials. The famine itself was a widespread and devastating event, making access to food a matter of life and death, and placing immense pressure on families. The act of bringing "other money" (new funds) for food, along with the original money, was a culturally appropriate gesture of honesty and an attempt to rectify any perceived wrong. The brothers’ fear of being accused of theft was not unfounded; it reflected the very real dangers and lack of legal recourse they would face as outsiders in a foreign judicial system, especially given the stern demeanor of the Egyptian governor they had encountered previously.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis. It highlights **Divine Providence**, as the brothers are unknowingly caught in Joseph's intricate plan, which is ultimately God's plan for their preservation and the continuation of the covenant line. Their bewilderment ("we cannot tell") underscores the hidden nature of God's workings, even as He orchestrates events for His purposes (cf. [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Joseph's declaration of God's purpose")). The verse also powerfully illustrates the **Transformation of Character** among Joseph's brothers. Their proactive honesty here stands in stark contrast to their past deception regarding Joseph's fate (e.g., [Genesis 37:31-33](/genesis/37-31-33 "The brothers' deception")). This moment reveals a newfound commitment to **Integrity and Responsibility**, a crucial step towards their eventual reconciliation with Joseph and with God. Furthermore, the theme of **Sustenance and Survival** in the face of famine underscores humanity's dependence on God's provision, even when it comes through unexpected or confusing means.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **other (Hebrew, _ʼachêr'_):** From H312, meaning "properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc.; (an-) other man, following, next, strange." In this context, it emphasizes that the money they brought down was distinct from the money found in their sacks; it was fresh, new funds specifically for the purpose of buying food, thereby reinforcing their honest intentions.
* **hands (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** From H3027, a primitive word referring to "a hand (the open one (indicating power, means, direction, etc.),)." Here, "in our hands" signifies that they personally carried and presented this money, implying their direct responsibility and transparent action. It conveys the idea of having the means and the intention to pay legitimately.
* **cannot tell (Hebrew, _yâdaʻ'_):** From H3045, a primitive root meaning "to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including observation, care, recognition; and causatively, instruction, designation, punishment, etc.)." The phrase "we cannot tell" (literally, "we did not know") conveys their absolute and genuine ignorance regarding the identity of the person who returned the money. It is a profound expression of bewilderment and a sincere plea of innocence, not an attempt to evade responsibility.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And other money have we brought down in our hands to buy food:"** This initial clause establishes the brothers' legitimate purpose for their return to Egypt. They are not attempting to cheat or steal but have come prepared with new funds to purchase the necessary provisions. The phrase "in our hands" emphasizes their direct and honest action, signaling their intention to engage in a proper commercial transaction. It serves as a preemptive defense against any suspicion of ill intent.
* **"we cannot tell who put our money in our sacks."** This second, crucial clause addresses the perplexing and terrifying discovery from their first journey. The declaration "we cannot tell" (Hebrew: _lo' yada'nu_) is a powerful admission of complete ignorance and genuine bewilderment. It underscores their vulnerability and their desperate desire to clear their names. They are not fabricating a story but truthfully stating their lack of knowledge, which ironically highlights Joseph's unseen, orchestrating hand. This transparency marks a significant shift from their past deceptive behaviors.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to enhance its meaning and impact. There is profound **Irony**, as the brothers genuinely declare their ignorance of who put the money in their sacks, while the reader is fully aware that it was Joseph, their estranged brother, orchestrating these events. This creates dramatic tension and highlights the hidden hand of divine providence at work. The brothers' proactive confession and their emphasis on honesty also serve as a form of **Character Development**, contrasting sharply with their earlier deceptions. Their current integrity, born out of fear and genuine bewilderment, **Foreshadows** the eventual reconciliation and the revelation of Joseph's identity, which will bring their transformation to full fruition. The very act of their sincere, yet ignorant, explanation also builds **Suspense**, as the reader anticipates Joseph's response to their dilemma and the unfolding of his larger plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This poignant moment in Genesis 43:22 serves as a powerful illustration of God's sovereign hand at work, even through the most confusing and bewildering circumstances. The brothers' genuine ignorance of Joseph's actions mirrors humanity's often limited perspective on God's intricate plans. Their newfound commitment to honesty, born out of fear and a desire to do what is right, highlights the transformative power of difficult experiences in shaping character and preparing hearts for reconciliation.

* **Divine Sovereignty and Hidden Providence:** The brothers' declaration, "[Genesis 43:22](/genesis/43-22 "Genesis 43:22 - We cannot tell")," perfectly encapsulates the mystery of God's unseen workings. Just as Joseph's hand was hidden from them, so too does God often work behind the scenes, orchestrating events for His ultimate purposes, even when we are bewildered by circumstances ([Isaiah 55:8-9](/isaiah/55-8-9 "Isaiah 55:8-9 - God's thoughts are higher than ours")).
* **Transformation and Repentance:** The brothers' proactive honesty and their desire to rectify a perceived wrong stand in stark contrast to their past deception concerning Joseph's fate. This moment signifies a profound change in their character, moving them closer to the humility and integrity necessary for true reconciliation, a spiritual journey often mirrored in the process of repentance ([2 Corinthians 7:10](/2_corinthians/7-10 "2 Corinthians 7:10 - Godly sorrow leads to repentance")).
* **Integrity Under Pressure:** Despite their fear and vulnerability in a foreign land, the brothers prioritize honesty. This emphasizes the biblical call to integrity, even when it is difficult or costly, trusting that righteousness ultimately leads to favor and blessing ([Proverbs 11:3](/proverbs/11-3 "Proverbs 11:3 - Integrity guides the upright")).

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
The brothers' earnest confession in [Genesis 43:22](/genesis/43-22 "Genesis 43:22 - The brothers' honest plea") offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. Their decision to be transparent and honest, even when faced with a bewildering and potentially dangerous situation, underscores the enduring value of integrity. In a world where expediency often trumps truth, this passage reminds us that our character, particularly our commitment to honesty, is a profound witness to our faith. We are called to live with integrity in all our dealings, whether in business, relationships, or personal conduct, reflecting the righteousness of God. Furthermore, the brothers' bewilderment ("we cannot tell") resonates deeply with our own experiences of navigating life's confusing and uncertain moments. Just as Joseph's hand was hidden from them, God's sovereign plan often unfolds in ways we cannot fully comprehend. This should cultivate in us a spirit of trust, encouraging us to lean on God's wisdom and goodness even when circumstances are unclear, knowing that He is working all things for our good and His glory ([Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God works all things for good")). Their humility in admitting ignorance and seeking to make things right is a model for our own spiritual growth, fostering a willingness to confess our shortcomings and pursue reconciliation.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life might you be tempted to compromise integrity for convenience or fear, and how can this verse encourage you to choose honesty?**
* **How does the brothers' bewilderment about the returned money relate to times when you have felt confused or uncertain about God's plan in your own life?**
* **What steps can you take to cultivate a deeper trust in God's unseen hand, even when circumstances seem inexplicable?**
* **How does the brothers' transformation from deception to honesty challenge you to grow in character and pursue genuine repentance in your own life?**

### FAQ
**Why were the brothers so worried about the returned money?**

Answer: The brothers were gravely concerned because finding the money in their sacks made them appear as thieves, a serious accusation in the ancient world, especially for foreigners in a powerful land like Egypt. Theft could lead to severe penalties, including enslavement or even death. They feared it was a trap orchestrated by the Egyptian governor (Joseph) to find a pretext to accuse, imprison, or enslave them, particularly after Joseph's initially stern reception during their first visit. Their livelihood and very lives depended on the governor's favor, making any suspicion of wrongdoing terrifying.

**What does the phrase "we cannot tell who put our money in our sacks" reveal about the brothers?**

Answer: This phrase, "we cannot tell" (Hebrew: _lo' yada'nu_), reveals their genuine bewilderment and their sincere desire for honesty. It is not an evasion, but a truthful admission of complete ignorance regarding the mysterious return of the money. This transparency marks a significant and positive shift in their character from their earlier deceptive actions concerning Joseph's disappearance ([Genesis 37:31-33](/genesis/37-31-33 "The brothers' deception")). It highlights their newfound commitment to integrity, even in a highly vulnerable and confusing situation, demonstrating a moral growth essential for their eventual reconciliation.

**Was Joseph's act of secretly returning the money deceptive or manipulative?**

Answer: From the brothers' perspective, Joseph's act was certainly confusing and alarming, causing them great distress. However, from Joseph's perspective, and within the broader divine narrative, it was not malicious deception but part of a complex, divinely orchestrated test. Joseph used this situation to assess his brothers' character, humility, and remorse over their past sins. It was an act of **divine providence**, designed to bring about their repentance, reconciliation, and the ultimate preservation of their family and the covenant line, rather than a malicious or manipulative trick. Joseph's actions ultimately served a redemptive purpose, leading to a profound reunion and the fulfillment of God's promises ([Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Joseph's declaration of God's purpose")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Joseph and his brothers, particularly their honest plea in [Genesis 43:22](/genesis/43-22 "Genesis 43:22 - The brothers' honest plea") amidst their bewilderment, powerfully prefigures the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Just as Joseph, though rejected and sold by his brothers, became the unexpected means of their salvation and sustenance in a time of famine, so Christ, rejected and crucified by humanity, became the ultimate provider of spiritual life and reconciliation. The brothers' journey from deception to a sincere desire for integrity, and their reliance on a seemingly stern but ultimately benevolent authority figure (Joseph), mirrors humanity's journey from sin to repentance and reliance on Christ. The mysterious hand of providence, working through bewildering circumstances to achieve a greater good (the preservation of Israel and the lineage of Christ), points to God's sovereign plan in Christ to bring salvation and transform hearts. Through Christ, the **true Bread of Life** ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus is the Bread of Life")), God provides for a world in spiritual famine, offering forgiveness and reconciliation to those who, like the brothers, humble themselves and seek to make things right. The "unknown" hand that placed the money in their sacks ultimately points to the "unseen" hand of God, meticulously working through Christ to redeem and restore His people, fulfilling His eternal purposes (cf. [Ephesians 1:11](/ephesians/1-11 "Ephesians 1:11 - God works all things according to His purpose")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.